Introduction
The SQA Forest Kindergarten Award is a nationally recognised qualification designed for professionals who want to enrich early learning through outdoor experiences. This programme is ideal for qualified early learning practitioners, early years workers, managers, teachers, third sector staff, and anyone responsible for organising and supervising regular visits to woodlands or green spaces for children.
Accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), the award highlights the importance of woodlands as a vital part of the learning journey for pre-school and early years children. The course equips participants with the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills needed to plan and deliver high-quality forest kindergarten sessions.
By completing this programme, practitioners will learn how to establish a routine of off-site visits that provide children with frequent opportunities to play, explore, and learn in natural environments. The course recognises the many benefits of outdoor play, including physical development, creativity, resilience, and a deeper connection with nature.
Course code
SFRK
Location
Dumfries and Stranraer Campus
Duration
12 x Tuesday Evenings, 1800 – 2100. Plus self study.
Price
£95.00
Availability
Location: Dumfries
Evening 1 – 14 Apr 2026 18:00
Evening 2 – 21 Apr 2026 18:00
Evening 3 – 28 Apr 2026 18:00
Evening 4 – 05 May 2026 18:00
Evening 5 – 12 May 2026 18:00
Evening 6 – 19 May 2026 18:00
Evening 7 – 26 May 2026 18:00
Evening 8 – 02 Jun 2026 18:00
Evening 9 – 09 Jun 2026 18:00
Evening 10 – 16 Jun 2026 18:00
Evening 11 – 23 Jun 2026 18:00
Evening 12 – 30 Jun 2026 18:00
Entry Requirements
This course is intended for those currently working or volunteering in a childcare setting. You’ll need access to a location that offers Forest Kindergarten or similar outdoor play experiences—such as a nursery, school, or voluntary group
Important Notice for All Course Attendees To attend and complete the course, you must bring valid photographic identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- A valid UK passport
- A full or provisional UK driving licence
Please note:
Failure to present a valid photo ID on the day may result in you being unable to complete the course.
This requirement is part of our compliance procedures and is essential for verifying participant identity.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Course Content
What You Will Learn:
Outcome 1 – The Place
- Principles of Forest Kindergarten and outdoor learning.
- Identifying and assessing suitable woodland or outdoor spaces.
- Risk assessment and safety planning.
- Environmental sustainability and responsible use of natural spaces.
Outcome 2 – The People
- Roles and responsibilities of staff and volunteers.
- Engaging parents and carers in outdoor learning.
- Supporting children’s development through nature-based experiences.
- Communication strategies for outdoor settings.
Outcome 3 – The Activities
- Planning and delivering Forest Kindergarten sessions.
- Linking activities to curriculum frameworks (e.g., CfE).
- Seasonal and weather considerations.
- Observation and reflection on children’s learning outdoors.
DGC also includes the emphasises on the need for accurate risk assessments health and safety processes, and understanding of First Aid in the delivery of this award.
Assessments
Alongside written assessments and group or individual presentations, the course requires you to observe an outdoor session with children that reflects Forest Kindergarten principles. This observation can take place in your own workplace or another suitable setting, and the college can help arrange visits if needed.
You’ll also be expected to put your learning into practice by planning and leading part or all of an outdoor session with children.
Career Prospects
Once you have successfully completed this award you will be able to plan and deliver outdoor activities using a forest kindergarten approach.
Course Contact Details
If you would like more information or to reserve a place on a course, please get in touch.
Telephone: 01387 734199
E-mail:shortcourses@dumgal.ac.uk
Booking Terms & Conditions | Dumfries & Galloway College (dumgal.ac.uk)
Selling Points
Outdoor learning not only improves mental wellbeing and health and fitness, it can make a huge difference to children’s confidence levels and their ability to risk assess while encouraging a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Childcare and Early Years